The Benefits of Clinical Trials for Caregivers: Teriko’s Story| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Are you a caregiver for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? Teriko Epps, who cared for her mother with Alzheimer’s, found resources, activities, and more when she joined a clinical trial. Watch this video to learn more about her caregiving journey and the benefits of participating in a clinical trial. The post The Benefits of Clinical Trials for Caregivers: Teriko’s Story appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Be Active to ...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking skills, and, eventually, the ability to carry out simple tasks. People with Alzheimer’s may experience a range of symptoms during the different stages of the disease. In some cases, symptoms may worsen and then improve over time, but the person’s abilities will continue to […] The post What are the Stages of Alzheimer’s disease? appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: What ar...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Brain health affects how you think, feel, act, and relate to others. Multiple factors can affect the brain’s health, including age-related changes, injuries such as stroke, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Learn more about brain health with this infographic. The post What is Brain Health? appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Introducing the Illinois Brain Health Project! What is Brain Health? Did You Know that Sl...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Biomarkers are measurable indicators of what’s happening in your body and can be found in blood, other bodily fluids, organs, and tissues. They can track healthy processes, disease progression, and medication responses. They’re a crucial part of dementia research. Watch this video to learn how biomarkers can help diagnose dementia. Related posts: A Roadmap for More […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
This guide is for anyone who provides care for family members or friends who need help with daily living. It focuses on the needs of older adults who require care because of a serious health condition or disability, but it could also apply to other situations in which caregiving is needed. Explore this guide to […] The post The Caregiver’s Handbook: Download Your Free Copy Today appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Check out NIA’s Resources for Dementia...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many adults want to stay in their own homes as they age. However, they may have concerns about safety, getting around, or other daily activities. Just a few changes can help make a home easier and safer to live in and allow an older adult to stay independent. Use this infographic to learn how to make […] The post Home Safety Tips for Older Adults appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Tips for Living Alone With Dementia Safety Tips for People Living with Dem...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The post Register Now! Brain Health Summit, Keeping Your Brain Healthy As You Age appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: CDC Public Health Grand Rounds — “Healthy Aging: Promoting Well-being in Older Adults,” on Tuesday, September 19, at 1:00 p.m. (ET). How a Positive State of Mind Can Lead to a Healthier You A Social Life Makes for a Healthier Life| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
If you are a caregiver for a person with Alzheimer’s disease, you may notice changes in their behavior as the disease worsens. They may become more easily agitated or aggressive or they may verbally or physically lash out against other people. When restlessness, agitation, irritability, and confusion happen as daylight begins to fade it’s known […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
After a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, it can be difficult to think beyond the day to day. But taking steps now can help you prepare for a smoother tomorrow. Here are five ways you can plan for the future: Learn more about planning for the future after a dementia diagnosis. The post Five Ways to Prepare After a Dementia Diagnosis appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Take Care of Your Cognitive Health DFA Communities Semi-Annual Sur...| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The post Oak Park Library Hosting Caregiver Support Event, Sept. 10 appeared first on Illinois Cognitive Resources Network. Related posts: Alzheimer’s Association Hosts Free Alzheimer’s Research Webinar, May 19 Tips for Exercising Outdoors Caring for a Person with a Frontotemporal Disorder| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, some people are able to keep driving. But as memory and decision-making skills get worse, at some point it will no longer be safe to be behind the wheel. It’s important to start thinking about when a person should give up driving. By planning in advance, […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Tips to Make Your Home Safer and Reduce the Risk of Falling| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many older adults want to stay in their own homes and continue to live independently as they age. However, more than one in four people aged 65 or older fall each year, often causing broken bones or long-term hospital stays. The good news is that there are things you can do to help reduce your […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The Age Guide Annual Aging Summit is a platform to address the challenges and opportunities of aging. The 2025 theme is: Mind Matters: A Lifespan Approach to Brain Health. Among event presenters are ICRN’s Dr. Raj Shah, Dr. Darby Morhardt and Susan Frick, MSW, LSW. Click on the registration link below for more event information, […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Living with dementia presents unique challenges, such as keeping the person safe both in and outside of their home. However, there are things you can do to help. Safety tips for people with dementia include: Find more tips for people with dementia. Related posts: Tips for Living Alone With Dementia RADC Let’s Talk Series Presents: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Caregiving comes with many responsibilities, and keeping track of tasks can be stressful. NIA’s caregiver worksheets can help you coordinate care and stay on top of important details like medications and medical documents for family members or friends who need help with daily living. Here are a few worksheets to help support your caregiving needs: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Brain health refers to how well a person’s brain functions across several different areas. While brain health can be affected by age-related changes in the brain, including injuries, mood disorders, and diseases such as Alzheimer’s and related dementias, research suggests there are things you can do to help maintain your brain health. Some aspects of […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Aerobic physical activity, sometimes referred to as endurance or cardio, involves moving the body’s large muscles for extended periods. Aerobic exercises require the lungs to move more air and the heart to pump more blood and deliver it to the working muscles, increasing your breathing and heart rate. Regular aerobic exercise, even light-intensity movement, can […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Hot weather can be uncomfortable and dangerous, especially for older adults. Heat-related illnesses, like hyperthermia, can come on quickly and become serious. However, there are warning signs to watch for and simple ways to keep your loved one safe when temperatures rise. View the following infographic to learn tips on staying safe in hot weather. Related […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
It’s normal for the brain to lose neurons as we age. But for people with dementia, there is a much greater loss. Neurons stop working, lose connections with other brain cells, and eventually die, leading to symptoms that start gradually and worsen over time. View this infographic to learn about four types of dementia, how they […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Extreme heat is not safe for anyone, but it is particularly dangerous for older adults. Hotter days can make it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature. Older adults tend to not adjust as well as others to sudden temperature changes.However, there are things you can do to help you stay safe and lower […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Mark your calendars for the “Golden Years, Golden Minds” Brain Health Summit on September 20 from 10a.m. to 1p.m. The event will be held at the Kroc Center Chicago. Find more information below! Related posts: Did You Know that Sleep is Good for Your Brain? ¿Sabías que dormir es bueno para tu cerebro? What Do […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Explore communities leading the way in dementia-friendly initiativesand see which ones are near you. Explore communities leading the way in dementia-friendly initiativesand see which ones are near you. News| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Working with doctors and other healthcare professionals can be an important part of being a caregiver. Some things caregivers may find especially helpful to discuss are: what to expect in the future, sources of information and support, community services, and ways they can maintain their own well-being. If you go with the person you care […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Managing Money Problems for People with Dementia| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
NIA Video: What is Dementia?| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
NIA Video: What is Dementia?| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Caregiving Tips During Late-Stage Alzheimer’s| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As dementia symptoms worsen over time, even simple, everyday activities can become difficult. But there are ways to manage these changes and make daily tasks easier. Here are a few tips to consider early on and as the disease progresses: Find more tips for everyday tasks for a person with dementia. Related posts: Long-Distance Caregiving Caring […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
People with dementia need more care as their symptoms get worse over time. Problems with memory, thinking, and behavior often present challenges for people with dementia, along with their family members and caregivers. There are support systems, resources, and services available to help people in any stage of the disease. This type of help can […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As people age, they are more likely to experience fall-related health issues. If an older adult falls and breaks a bone, it could lead to more serious problems, such as a hospital visit or disability. Many falls are preventable. Use this infographic to learn six tips to help prevent falls. Related posts: ICRN Meeting Agenda and […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many people find that caregiving provides a sense of fulfillment and that they like feeling useful and needed. But the ongoing demands of taking care of someone else can strain even the most resilient person. That’s why it’s so important for you to take care of yourself. Related posts: Managing Sleep Problems in People with […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
As you age, you may have concerns about the increased risk of dementia. You may have questions, too. Are there steps I can take to prevent it? Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk? There are currently no approaches that have been proven to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, as […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
A nutritious diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, get the nutrients you need, and lower your risk of certain chronic diseases. Use these tips to plan healthy and delicious meals: Find more tips for healthy meal planning. Related posts: 10 Tips for Choosing Healthy Meals as you Age Add Key Vitamins to Your […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
In addition to fresh air and sunshine, traveling offers a variety of experiences—sightseeing, dining out, and enhanced physical activity—which can provide important cognitive, sensory, and social stimulation. A break from the routine doesn’t have to equal chaos; when planned carefully, traveling can be a restful and reinvigorating experience. For someone with Alzheimer’s or a related […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Have you ever left your doctor’s office realizing you forgot to ask an important question? Or were you frustrated because you didn’t fully understand the doctor’s instructions? Being able to talk with your doctor is important, especially if you have health problems or concerns. Check out NIA’s video to learn 5 ways to make the most […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Many people wonder if Alzheimer’s disease runs in their family, and how their genes may play a role. Understanding the role genes play in Alzheimer’s and related dementias is key to finding effective methods of prevention and treatment. Watch this video to learn more about the role of genetics in Alzheimer’s. Related posts: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
The nervous system receives and processes information about the world around us to help us react to situations, communicate, and keep our bodies safe and healthy. Much of this information comes through the sensory organs which the brain processes as sight, sound, smell, taste, or touch – our five senses. Sensory stimulation is the activation […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Five Tips for Everyday Care for People with Dementia| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Who we are We are the Illinois Cognitive Resources Network (ICRN). The ICRN was created in 2012 to develop a state-based model to improve interactions among the aging network, the disability network, the public health network, state Alzheimer’s Association chapters and state Alzheimer’s Disease Assistance Centers. The overall goal is to help Illinois residents maintain […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Depression is common among older adults, but it isn’t a normal part of aging. It can affect how you feel, think, and act. While dealing with depression can be difficult, you don’t need to tackle it alone. That’s why it’s important to seek support from family, friends, and health care professionals early on. View this […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Alzheimer’s disease slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out daily tasks. These changes can affect someone’s behavior. It’s important to remember that the disease is responsible for these changes, not the person. Watch this video to learn six tips to help manage behavior changes in people with Alzheimer’s. Related […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
After being diagnosed with dementia, you may find it challenging to think beyond the day to day. However, there are ways you can plan ahead and prepare for a smoother tomorrow. Some examples include: Find more tips for planning after a dementia diagnosis. Related posts: NIA Announces a Summer Virtual Meeting Series to Engage the […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Listen as the Illinois Academy of Family Physician’s Brain Trust Podcast engages caregivers in candid conversations about their experience with diagnosis management and caring for their loved ones. All episodes are free and accessible to the public and are funded by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Episode 19: The Brain Trust Caregiver Mini-Series: […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Research shows that the benefits of exercise go beyond just physical well-being. Exercise can help increase your energy, improve sleep, and reduce feelings of stress. Watch this video to learn how physical activity can help support your emotional and mental health. Related posts: Combating Racial Inequality in Aging Research MHA Webinar: How To Support Your Healthcare […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network
Mealtimes can be challenging for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. However, creating a routine with familiar foods, a consistent time and setting, and pleasant conversation, are a few ways to make mealtimes easier. View this infographic for tips to simplify mealtimes for a person with Alzheimer’s. Related posts: What Can a Caregiver Really Do […]| Illinois Cognitive Resources Network